Solar Springs health retreat review, Bundanoon, NSW: Weekend away

Lean in: Yoga with a view at Solar Springs Retreat in NSW's Southern Highlands.

THE LOCATION

Bundanoon is a charming historic township in the NSW Southern Highlands. It's long been on the tourist radar for its guesthouses, bushwalks in the Morton National Park and picturesque country surrounds. There's a good homewares and gift store, Nest and Burrows, Ye Olde Bicycle Shoppe and a pottery shop.

THE SPACE

Green acres: Solar Springs Retreat at Bundanoon sits in established gardens.

The 1920s historic guesthouse in pale yellow and green trim is set in established and beautifully maintained gardens flowering with poppies, blossom trees and topiary hedges. It overlooks the Merlya State Forest. Inside the retreat is comfortable and snug, but the decor is somewhat dated. The most appealing rooms are the dining room with its polished floorboards and the "Quiet Room" with wood burning stove and serene escarpment views.

Its old-fashioned appearance does not put off its many repeat guests, some of whom have been coming since it first opened as Solar Springs Retreat 30 years ago. One woman I meet from the Gold Coast has been coming for 25 years; another, a father of two from Sydney, for near on a decade. Most guests say the ability to be yourself; the unpretentiousness and the fact that activities are optional are the retreat's main attractions – although affordability plays a big part too. From my room I can see the immense span of Morton National Park across the manicured lawns.

THE KIT

Splash down: The pool at Solar Springs Retreat.

The retreat's two valley view suites are the most sought after, with views over the Bundanoon Gullies and access to a deck. Other options are en suite king rooms or value rooms with a shared bathroom. Most rooms overlook the pretty gardens. Rooms are clean and comfortable but err on the basic side. Bathrooms are 80s motel-style, complete with soaps in plastic wrappers. The showers are enormous and the water pressure is fantastic. The spa in the aquatic centre is a great place to unwind and take in the wonderful views.

COMFORT FACTOR

The outdated decor doesn't detract from the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Gas log fires add to the cosy feel. There's also a TV room (no TVs or phones in the room) but I never see anyone use it. There's a sauna, steam room, fully equipped gym, activities room and excellent inhouse spa. Again the decor is dated, but the therapists and treatments are world class.

Twenties charm: The buttercup yellow guesthouse.

FOOD

The restaurant headed up by resident hatted French chef Francois Razavetserves up nutritious and tasty cuisine. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style (vegetarian) and include options such as leek and ricotta frittata, quinoa currant and almond salad, tofu, vegetable and peanut stir-fry with brown rice, pumpkin and seed salad. Fantastic crunchy bread is served with lunch and dinner. Dinners are three-course and there's a small wine list. Francois' wife Stephanie creates sweet treats for dessert and afternoon tea including coconut biscuits and hazelnut gateau.

WORTH STEPPING OUT FOR

A 10-minute drive will find you in the tiny hamlet of Exeter. Enjoy morning tea or brunch (on the weekends) at the Exeter General Store. The coffee is the best in the area. Nest and Burrows is worth a mosey, the village markets are on the first and third Sunday of the month, or borrow a bike from Solar Springs and set off and explore on two wheels. The retreat runs various bush walks including a night walk to the Glow Worm Glen.

THE VERDICT

Solar Springs Retreat is the ideal place to recharge the batteries and has a long, loyal list of customers (predominantly female) who return annually. Although sceptical I would be able to gain much benefit out of just two nights, I feel myself relax; I take part in several activities, have a couple of excellent treatments in the spa and even enjoyed several walks around the picturesque town of Bundanoon. The warmth and professionalism of the staff is impressive. Even though it's not as aesthetically pleasing as many high-end retreats and wellness centres, its natural surrounds more than make up for it.

HOW TO GET THERE

Solar Springs is within easy reach of both Sydney (90 minutes) depending on the traffic. From Melbourne you can fly to Sydney Airport and either hire a car or go by train. Those arriving by train are met by staff at the station.

ESSENTIALS

Two night "escape" packages start from $540 a person, twin share including all meals, health and fitness activities, a Swedish massage and seasonal facial. Phone [phone], see solarsprings.com.au.

The writer was a guest of Solar Springs Retreat.